Colorado Parks and Wildlife opened a $1 million grant round to help communities install bear‑resistant trash infrastructure and reduce human‑bear conflicts.

Federal maps and filings indicate roughly 111–112 miles of a proposed Smart Wall through Big Bend National Park, prompting outcry from locals and conservationists. Critics warn of lasting harm to wildlife and tourism.

The Woodlands Township is negotiating with Early Bird to build a 50-acre public par‑3 course at South Gosling Park, promising night-play options and lower-cost access while protecting the tree canopy.

ZooTampa closed a $33 million campaign to finish Florida Waters and the Straz Family Manatee Rescue, adding new habitats and expanded rescue capacity this spring.

A developer wants to build a warehouse on a five‑acre stand of mangroves near Port Everglades; residents and scientists warn the loss would hurt flood protection and wildlife.

Home cameras captured a cougar prowling Bellingham’s Geneva neighborhood; residents have asked wildlife officials to assess whether the animal should be removed.

The Washington DNR warned this week that budget cuts could force closures at nearly 20 recreation sites, including campgrounds and an ORV area in Southwest Washington. Officials say staffing losses and lost crew partnerships have stretched maintenance thin.

The Samuel Barton Stewart III Memorial Foundation is donating to convert City Park’s maintenance corral into the S. Barton Stewart III Center, supporting City Park 2050.

Lee County deputies, FWC crews and drone pilots rescued an injured mother manatee and her calf from the Orange River; both were sent to ZooTampa for care.

A $34.7M, 33,055‑sq‑ft Fair Oaks Recreation Complex has opened in East Tampa, adding courts, trails and senior programming across a 10.25‑acre campus.

A Glendale dog owner says a mountain lion grabbed her leashed pet late Monday; state wildlife officials have assigned a biologist and neighbors are searching the Verdugo foothills.

Mount Rainier will not require timed-entry reservations in 2026 and will rely on parking and traffic controls instead. Officials and local businesses are watching how summer crowds respond.

Lurie Garden will close March 2 through early July for repairs to its wooden boardwalk and water feature. Managers say the work is a preservation project focused on safety.